Articuno (161)

Articuno 161/159 Journey Together is the Illustration Rare holofoil single from the Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet SV09 set, numbered 161/159 and illustrated by Kuroimori. This card sits beyond the standard set numbering, a hallmark of the Illustration Rare rarity tier, and showcases Articuno in a full-art scenic composition that sets it apart from the standard card face.

Card Details

Everything you need to know about this single at a glance:

• Card Name: Articuno
• Card Number: 161/159
• Set: Journey Together (Scarlet & Violet SV09)
• Rarity: Illustration Rare (IR)
• Illustrator: Kuroimori
• Type: Water
• Classification: Basic Pokémon
• HP: 110

Artwork and Rarity

Illustration Rares are among the most visually distinctive cards in the modern Scarlet & Violet era. Unlike standard holofoil prints, the Articuno Illustration Rare features a full bleed illustration by Kuroimori that extends across the entire card face, replacing the traditional card frame window with an immersive painted scene. The holofoil treatment interacts with the artwork directly, giving the card a dynamic shimmer that collectors and players alike find appealing.

The 161/159 numbering places this card in the over-set range, which signals to buyers immediately that this is a special rarity pull rather than a standard set card. Journey Together Articuno in IR format is one of the notable Water-type highlights from the SV09 release.

Condition and Packaging

Singles listed on TCG CardStore are handled with collector standards in mind. When you buy an Articuno 161/159 single here, you are purchasing a raw card. Each card is carefully handled during sorting and fulfillment to preserve surface, corners, and edges. If you have specific condition questions before purchasing, reach out via the store contact and a team member will respond with details on the specific copy available.

Raw cards are shipped with protective packaging appropriate for single card orders, keeping the card rigid and sleeve-protected during transit.

Why Collect Articuno 161/159

There are several reasons buyers search specifically for the Pokémon Journey Together Articuno Illustration Rare rather than settling for the standard Articuno print from the same set:

• Distinct artwork: Kuroimori’s illustration style gives this version a completely different visual identity to the standard card.
• Set completion: Collectors building a master set of Journey Together need the over-set IR cards including 161/159 to finish their run.
• Water-type collections: Dedicated Water-type or Articuno-focused binder collectors prioritise IR versions for the full artwork presentation.
• Scarlet & Violet era collecting: The SV09 set continues the Scarlet & Violet series, and IR cards from each SV release have been consistent targets for set collectors since the era launched.
• Holofoil appeal: The holofoil finish on Illustration Rares catches light differently to standard holo cards, making them a visual standout in binders and displays.

Whether you are adding this card to a competitive binder, a Water-type themed display, or a Journey Together master set, the Articuno IR is a purposeful pick rather than an impulse buy for most collectors who search for it by card number.

Shipping and Returns

Orders are processed and shipped from TCG CardStore. Single cards are packaged to arrive in the same condition they left the store. For full details on shipping options, timelines, and return eligibility, refer to the store’s shipping and returns policy page. If you have a question about a specific order, the TCG CardStore support team is the right contact point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Illustration Rare mean in the Pokémon TCG?

Illustration Rare (IR) is a rarity tier introduced in the modern Scarlet & Violet era. These cards feature full-bleed artwork by the illustrator that covers the entire card face rather than appearing inside a standard card frame window. They are numbered beyond the standard set count, which is why this card is 161/159 in a set with 159 standard cards.

Is this the same Articuno as the standard card in Journey Together?

No. The Articuno 161/159 Journey Together is a separate card from any standard-numbered Articuno in the set. It shares the same Pokémon but features unique Kuroimori artwork and the Illustration Rare holofoil treatment, making it a distinct collectible in its own right.

Who illustrated this card?

This card was illustrated by Kuroimori, who is credited on the card itself. The illustrator credit is one of the details collectors use to distinguish IR versions when building themed collections around specific artists.

What set is this card from?

This card is from Journey Together, the Scarlet & Violet SV09 set in the Pokémon TCG. It is part of the continuing Scarlet & Violet series and carries the standard SV09 set identifier.

What condition will I receive this card in?

This is a raw single card. TCG CardStore handles cards with collector care during sorting and fulfillment. If you need specific condition information for the copy in stock, contact the store directly before placing your order and a team member can assist.

Does this card see competitive play?

The Illustration Rare version of Articuno shares the same in-game text as any standard-legal version of the card bearing the same name. Whether a card sees competitive play depends on the current format and metagame, which changes with each set release and rotation cycle. Check current format resources for up-to-date play eligibility.

Related Journey Together Singles

Expanding your Pokémon TCG collection? Browse more singles and sealed product on the store. You might also enjoy exploring these other TCG releases available at TCG CardStore:

• Adaman 199/189 Secret Rare | Astral Radiance — another over-set numbered rare single for collectors who enjoy chasing special rarity cards.
• Pokemon TCG Sword & Shield Chilling Reign Elite Trainer Box (Shadow Rider) — sealed product from the Sword & Shield era for collectors and players building out their collection.